Waukegan, Illinois (April 25, 2023) – The Waukegan Park District recognized the volunteers and patrons who contributed time and financial support to enhance parks, facilities, programs, and events. In 2022, volunteers contributed 6,125 hours and patrons donated $49,935. The hours contributed by volunteers are valued at approximately $174,807.00.
The following individuals and businesses were honored with special awards:
- Volunteer of the Year Award: Kate McCann
- Patron of the Year Award: AAA Tent Masters & Party Rentals
- Jack Benny Arts & Humanities Award: David Motley
- Coach of the Year Award: Scott Wickert
- Legacy Patron Award: Toni Favero
- Memorial Recognition Award: Mark and Barbara Reckling
In recognition and appreciation of outstanding contributions and unselfish devotion to the advancement of parks, recreation, and leisure in the community and State of Illinois, the Illinois Park and Recreation Association and Illinois Association of Park Districts with the Waukegan Park District presented a Community Service Award to following volunteers and patrons:
- Sylvia England
- Tom and Debra Essling
- Jo Ann Flores-Deter
- Patricia Hogan
- Susan Kelsey
- Saeed Rahman
- Mercedes Rivera
- Tom and Sheryl Streicher
- Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods
- Campanella & Sons, Inc
- Rosalind Franklin University
- Youth Conservation Corps
- Vista Medical Center East Volunteers
- Waukegan Little Fort Lions Club
Janet E. Kilkelly, President of the Waukegan Park District’s Board of Commissioners, stated, “Volunteers and patrons are essential to the success of the Waukegan Park District’s programs and events. Every volunteer and patron is greatly cherished for their dedication and commitment to our community. Their support is truly invaluable.”
Jay Lerner, Executive Director of the Waukegan Park District, stated, “The Waukegan Park District is grateful to have volunteers and patrons that support our efforts to provide exceptional parks, facilities, and leisure opportunities. Their volunteerism and financial contributions make a remarkable impact in our community.”
About the Waukegan Park District
Established on December 26, 1916, the Waukegan Park District (WPD) has 53 properties and more than 742 acres of land, including the 18-hole Bonnie Brook and 9-hole Greenshire Golf Courses. Properties are managed to the highest environmental and conservation standards. Facilities operated by the WPD include the Field House Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Center, Waukegan’s Greg Petry SportsPark, Waukegan Skate Park, BMX Track, SplashZone, Percussion Playground, recreational centers, disc golf course, dog exercise area and agility course, outdoor sports fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, splash pads, and sports courts including basketball, tennis and pickleball. A full range of programs and services are offered year-round for all ages, from infants to seniors, as well as special need populations. Healthy lifestyles, wellness initiatives, and a connection with the outdoors and nature are integrated throughout programs, services, and special events. Arts and cultural activities are provided by the Jack Benny Center for the Arts, Waukegan Symphony Orchestra and Concert Chorus, and the Waukegan History Museum. We offer something for everyone!
A member of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD), Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA), and the Park District Risk Management Agency (PDRMA), the WPD employs 73 full-time and 219 part-time, seasonal, and temporary employees and is recognized by the IPRA as an Exceptional Workplace.
Nationally accredited by the NRPA Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) and State accredited through the IAPD Distinguished Agency Accreditation, the WPD has received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Triple Crown Award for receiving the GFOA’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award, and the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. The WPD was awarded the NRPA National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management in 2013, and was named a Gold Medal Finalist in 2012, 2013, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
Media Contact
Josue Pasillas, MPA
Communications Supervisor
Waukegan Park District
(847) 360-4789
jpasillas@waukeganparks.org
waukeganparks.org